How do I protect my idea for a mobile phone application?

Copyright does not protect ideas. It is only when these ideas are fixed in some form that they may be protected.

Computer software is classed as a literary work and if it is original it will be protected for the life of the creator, plus 70 years from the year in which he or she dies. Once you have written the necessary software for your application, either electronically or in writing, your application will then automatically be protected by copyright.

It is also possible for computer programmes to be patented, although they must meet certain technical criteria (professional section). The Patents department can also perform a search (for a fee) to search for similar products. You will find further advice on applying for a patent in the patents area of the website.

You may also wish to trade mark the name or logo for your application or to register the logo as a design. Your logo may be protected by copyright as an artistic work too.

The trade marks and designs areas of the website will give you information on applying for these.